Riot Games, the developer of League of Legends and VALORANT, is taking a significant step by lifting its ban on betting sponsorships for partnered esports teams starting in 2025. This decision, which marks a major shift from Riot’s prior stance, could open up new revenue opportunities for organizations in their competitive circuits.
Historically, Riot Games prohibited any associations with gambling companies in its leagues, aiming to maintain a family-friendly image and safeguard competitive integrity. However, with rising economic pressures on esports organizations, this updated policy introduces a controlled way for teams to work with vetted betting partners without compromising Riot’s broader goals.
Strict Guidelines to Maintain Control
While betting partnerships are now allowed, Riot has set firm boundaries to mitigate risks and address concerns:
- Riot-Owned Platforms Stay Betting-Free Riot remains committed to keeping broadcasts, official social channels, and jerseys free of gambling-related branding. Teams may sign sponsorship deals with approved betting brands, but these partnerships must remain invisible on Riot’s official platforms.
- Vetting Betting Partners Riot will enforce strict vetting processes to ensure all betting brands meet regulatory requirements and uphold the company’s standards. Only licensed and credible operators will be allowed to partner with teams.
For instance, a team competing in the LEC or VCT Americas can secure sponsorship from a betting brand, but these deals won’t appear in Riot’s broadcasts. This structured approach ensures that esports teams can benefit financially without exposing younger audiences to gambling promotions.
Balancing Financial Relief and Fan Trust
The esports industry faces mounting pressure to achieve financial sustainability. Many organizations rely heavily on sponsorships, yet opportunities remain limited compared to traditional sports leagues. Riot’s revised policy acknowledges this challenge and offers teams a chance to diversify revenue streams through betting partnerships.
However, Riot’s cautious approach reflects its awareness of potential backlash. By maintaining a betting-free broadcast environment, the company prioritizes fan trust and minimizes exposure to younger viewers. This balance between financial opportunity and integrity is crucial as the esports industry continues to mature.
Industry Reactions and Long-Term Outlook
Reactions within the esports community have been mixed. Some organizations view the policy as a much-needed relief, while others, like Movistar KOI, have opted to steer clear of betting partnerships entirely. This split highlights the ongoing stigma surrounding gambling sponsorships in esports.
Looking ahead, Riot Games has stated that it will monitor the implementation closely and adapt its policies as needed. Should this initial phase prove successful, Riot may refine or expand its approach to betting partnerships in the future. By raising the player age limit to 18 for the 2024 LEC season, Riot is already preparing for the new sponsorship landscape responsibly.
A Balanced Perspective on Betting Partnerships
While allowing betting sponsorships introduces undeniable financial benefits for teams, it also raises ethical concerns. Critics worry about gambling’s influence on younger audiences and the integrity of competition. Riot’s structured framework addresses these issues by prioritizing regulation and transparency, but success will depend on responsible execution from both teams and betting partners.
Ultimately, this policy shift reflects a growing need for sustainable revenue models in esports. Riot’s cautious yet forward-thinking approach provides a blueprint for balancing growth with integrity.
